Published on: 2026-07-23
Source: People’s Republic of China — Translation
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Grodno /Belarus/, July 23 /Xinhua/ — The prospects for cooperation between the regions of Belarus and China look very promising and are moving into a phase of concrete practical actions. This was stated recently in an exclusive interview with a Xinhua correspondent by Yuri Karaev, Chairman of the Grodno Regional Executive Committee of Belarus.
On July 1, the first China-Belarus Regional Forum was held in Lanzhou city, Gansu province, China, with the Grodno region being one of the organizers. “The forum demonstrated truly significant practical results,” assessed Yu. Karaev, who also participated in the forum.
According to him, the forum gave the main impetus to the development of cooperation between the regions of the two countries and about 40 bilateral documents were signed at it. This is vivid evidence that the tasks set by the heads of state are being successfully implemented in practice: the emphasis is on as practical and effective work as possible directly at the local level, the official stated.
In 2007, sister relations were established between the Chinese province of Gansu and the Belarusian Grodno region. Yu. Karaev noted that over nearly two decades, the relations between the two regions have gone through an impressive journey from warm friendly ties to a strong “iron” brotherhood bonded by spirit. “This example clearly shows how trust built up over the years becomes a reliable foundation for large-scale and promising joint projects,” he said.
Yu. Karaev noted that China shows keen interest in the investment initiatives of the Grodno region of Belarus. According to him, Chinese partners were attracted by projects in the fields of logistics and agriculture, as well as the ambitious idea of creating a modern greenhouse complex for growing flowers, which opens new horizons for mutually beneficial cooperation.
The Grodno Region is one of the most dynamically developing entities in Belarus, noted the chairman of the regional executive committee, adding that “we have a favorable geographical location, developed industry, a modern agricultural complex, and significant tourism potential. The region has an impressive industrial and logistical foundation. The powerful engineering and manufacturing potential makes the territory a reliable platform for large-scale projects. A special role here is played by the Grodnoinvest Free Economic Zone (FEZ). It is ready infrastructure where attractive preferential conditions open wide opportunities for growth to investors.”
“Export flows from the region cover a wide range of directions, and China is one of the important partners. The region sends there not only raw materials but also high-quality finished products: from polyamides and timber to rapeseed oil and beef. Special attention deserves traditional Belarusian goods: dairy products, flax, crystal, as well as natural juices and fruit purees,” said Yu. Karaev.
He noted that the cultural capital of the Grodno region is equally valuable. The rich historical heritage, unique architecture, and special atmosphere made a strong impression on the guests. The Grodno region is not just a point on the map, but a promising destination for tourism and deep cultural exchange, a bridge between traditions and new opportunities.
“Attracting tourists from China to the Grodno region, cooperating and exchanging delegations of tour operators to establish sustainable contacts and long-term cooperation is one of the priority areas in the development of tourism in the Grodno region. In the coming years, we will continue to work on establishing partnerships with Chinese tour operators who will promote tours in our region on their national tourism platforms. I believe that Chinese tourists have much to see in the Grodno region. First and foremost, our castles — an opportunity to immerse yourself in a medieval fairy tale, visit an interactive historical tour, as well as the untouched Belarusian nature — the Belovezhskaya Pushcha,” said Yu. Karaev.
The official said that he had visited China twice and was deeply impressed by the architecture, lifestyle, and the features of state and provincial governance in the PRC. “In my opinion, the success of China’s development is contributed to by the extraordinary diligence of the Chinese people. I would also note the extraordinary organization of the citizens of the PRC, their dedication, and their unified patriotic impulse,” summarized Yu. Karaev.
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